Architectural Lighting Elevates
SAV was initially engaged to consult on shading and AV systems. The project, a custom new build in Bozeman, Mont. developed with local architect and interior design firm Studio H Design, already reflected strong design intent, with carefully selected materials, thoughtful detailing, and spaces designed to reward attention. As SAV joined the team it became clear there was an opportunity to further enhance how those materials and spaces would be experienced. The initial lighting layout provided a functional baseline, but the team recognized that a more intentional, layered approach could better support the architecture and design vision.
“There was definitely a layout, not a design,” said Stephanie Gilboy, Strategic Growth and Partnerships Director at SAV Inc. “Once we had the opportunity to show what thoughtful lighting could do, the conversation shifted, became more intentional.”
Refining the Lighting Design on the Go
Joining a project already in motion gave SAV a unique opportunity to collaborate closely with an experienced build team and bring a fresh perspective to the lighting design. Working within an active construction schedule, the team moved efficiently and collaboratively, refining the lighting plan in step with the broader build timeline. As SAV expanded its role, the team worked closely with the homeowner and build partners to explore how lighting could elevate the overall experience.
To demonstrate what was possible, they brought the client to North Third, SAV’s Bozeman showhouse, where DMF Lighting's warm dim fixtures were already in use. The experience made the impact of well-designed lighting immediately clear. The home’s great room presented one of the most distinctive design opportunities, with tall-vaulted ceilings that called for a thoughtful approach to illumination to preserve the architectural drama of the space while delivering the ambient light the room required. Throughout the rest of the home, the lighting strategy needed to be layered and intentional. Fixtures needed to support the architecture rather than simply fill the space, and lighting zones had to be carefully planned to align with how the homeowner lives in the space, supporting both everyday routines and entertaining.
A Consistent Lighting Experience Across the Entire Home
DMF Lighting was selected as the lighting partner for the project with 4-inch downlights from Artafex serving as the primary lighting platform throughout the home for both ambient and accent layers. In select areas, like the primary shower, Artafex 2-inch downlights were used where a smaller aperture was preferred. Scene programming across the home gave the homeowner intuitive access to the full range of the lighting without needing to manage individual fixtures. Scenes were designed around how the homeowner uses the space: morning light, daytime function, evening entertaining, and a quiet close to the day. DMF wall sconces were also installed on the building facade to accentuate the home’s architecture after dark.
The True Potential of Proper Architectural Lighting Revealed
SAV credited the smooth dimming performance of the fixtures towards crafting the perfect scenes, especially for the evening. Overall, the completed home stands as a demonstration of what architectural lighting can do highlighting the material selections that the architect and interior design team spent so much care on.
“The contractor and architect did an incredible job designing the home, and properly layering the lighting is what truly made it pop and shine the way it should,” said Stephanie Gilboy, Strategic Growth and Partnerships Director at SAV Inc.
SAV also credited the consistency of the lighting system across different fixture types for keeping the installation simple while ensuring a uniform approach across all spaces. DMF’s lead times also supported the project schedule, allowing SAV to move quickly once scope was finalized and keep lighting aligned with the broader construction timeline. For the electrical team, this meant fewer variables and a more efficient process throughout the project. That kind of predictability, SAV notes, is especially valuable on Montana builds, where sites are often hours from the nearest supply source and every returned trip carries a cost.
“DMF is a great fit for remote projects like this one, and others we do across Montana,” said Gilboy. “The product is simple and modular, which makes it easy to deploy confidently even when we are working far from the usual support infrastructure.” The homeowner, meanwhile, who began the project without lighting anywhere on their radar, finished it with a space that performs exactly as beautifully as it looks.
Article by CE Pro
Pg. 6–7, Sept/Oct 2026 Issue
